Val Hale

Executive Director, Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development

Val Hale is the executive director of the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), which promotes state growth in business, tourism and film. Hale was appointed to the position in 2014 by Governor Gary R. Herbert.

Before accepting the position as executive director, Hale served for two years as president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce. Prior to the chamber, Hale was vice president for university relations (2010-2012), vice president for advancement (2006-2010) and assistant vice president for external affairs (2005-2006) all at UVU, and he played a key role in transitioning Utah Valley State College into Utah Valley University.

Before his career at UVU, Hale worked 22 years for the Brigham Young University (BYU) Athletic Department, ultimately serving as its director beginning in 1999. He received his bachelor’s degree in public relations in 1981 and a master’s degree in communications in 1987—both from BYU. A successful leader, Hale has made many cherished contributions to the Utah Valley area throughout his noteworthy career.

Most recently, Hale has drawn from his many years of service to author “Living a Life That Matters: 7 Keys for Purposeful Living.” Hale and his wife have three children and 13 grandchildren, and they currently reside in Orem, UT.